Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he stands as the hottest striker in England following scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.

However, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

His six-match scoring streak puts him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League outings.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably sparked talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was noted.

"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."